Messages of unity and support after Sydney attack
Following the tragic Bondi Junction attack in Sydney last weekend, the Vatican has sent its condolences to the victims and their families.
In a telegram signed by the Cardinal Secretary of State, the Holy Father extended solidarity and compassion to all affected by the senseless violence.
Australian Catholic Bishops Conference president Archbishop Timothy Costelloe expressed his sorrow and urged prayers for the injured and deceased. He praised the bravery of emergency responders and bystanders who showed courage and compassion during the ordeal.
In the face of tragedy, Archbishop Costelloe emphasised the importance of seeking support and finding solace in the love of God. Read more.
Support for children after traumatic events
Following recent distressing events, the Australian Red Cross is providing support for affected families, with a focus on children’s wellbeing.
For assistance, visit ‘After a distressing event has happened’ and Resources for parents and caregivers.
Meanwhile, the e-safety commissioner is offering advice on dealing with violent or distressing content online.
The commissioner encourages talking to children if they encounter such material and keeping devices in open areas for monitoring.
They advise against sharing disturbing content, stressing that reporting it to the platform is more effective.
If the content persists, it can be reported to eSafety to block access within Australia.
Counselling services such as Kids Helpline, headspace, Lifeline and Beyond Blue are available for those in need.
Teens encouraged to shape national dialogue
Mission Australia is calling on Australian youths aged 15-19 to participate in its annual Youth Survey, providing a platform for them to highlight pressing national issues and personal struggles.
For participation and information, visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/youthsurvey and use #YouthSurvey2024.
New national code ensures integrity in Catholic ministries
A comprehensive national code of conduct titled ‘Integrity in Our Common Mission’ has been released by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference. This 32-page document replaces previous codes and emphasises the Church’s commitment to the safety of children and vulnerable individuals.
Under the oversight of Bishop Greg Bennet, the code covers essential areas such as maintaining boundaries, responding to complaints, social media usage, workplace abuse, and financial ethics. Breaches will be addressed within individual diocesan complaints handling policies.
The code’s principles align with the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards and are aimed at guiding clergy and lay pastoral leaders.
School canteens play important role in healthy eating
With alarming ABS findings showing fewer Australians are eating fruits, vegetables, and milk, the Federation of Canteens in Schools (FOCIS) is working to find new ways to offer healthy food choices for kids.
The federation is calling for increased support for school-based nutrition initiatives and plans to hold National School Food Network meetings to address challenges.
FOCIS also pledges to advocate for policy reforms at state and federal levels, recently submitting proposals to limit unhealthy food marketing to children.
Bishops endorse Vatican document on human dignity
Australian Catholic bishops have welcomed the publication of Dignitas Infinita in Rome, a document developed by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
It emphasises the inherent dignity of every individual, irrespective of circumstances.
The document identifies 13 grave violations of human dignity, including poverty, war, and digital violence, urging a deeper understanding of freedom and mutual responsibility.
Read more.
Catholic bishops call for minimum wage boost
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference wants a 4.9 per cent increase in the national minimum wage, proposing a $43.30 weekly raise.
Its submission stresses the importance of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and advocates embedding the goal of poverty reduction in setting the minimum wage.
Find the full submission here.
What’s on
Australian Catholics Professional Learning Session (subscribers only): Empowering Youth to Share the Good News – discover ways to support young people in spreading the Good News. Our speakers, Tahlia Sully, Julian Butler SJ, and Laura Kings, bring extensive experience in youth ministry, education, and fostering respectful conversations.?Date: 30 April?Time: 4.30-5.30pm AEST?Book your spot here.
https://www.australiancatholics.com.au/qasessions
The Jesuit Communications Young Voices Awards (YVAs): The theme is ‘Do Good, be good, spread the good news’. This is an opportunity for YVA entrants to highlight people and programs that are working to improve their communities. Entries close 5pm, Friday, 24 May 2024. Find out more.
Jesuit Mission Maytime Fair: Saturday 4 May, Xavier College, Melbourne. Proceeds will empower vulnerable communities in Asia and Africa through Jesuit Mission’s work.
When: 9am-5pm
Where: Xavier College Senior Campus, 135 Barkers Road, Kew
Find out more.
National Reconciliation Week (NRW): Learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This year’s theme is ‘Now More Than Ever’. 27 May–3 June 2024.
Posters and resources available here.